by Tom Pelissero, USA TODAY Sports

by Tom Pelissero, USA TODAY Sports

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has appointed Ted Wells, a prominent New York-based criminal lawyer, to direct an independent investigation into issues of workplace conduct involving the Miami Dolphins.

Wells will prepare a report for Goodell that will be made public.

"Mr. Wells will conduct a thorough and objective investigation," Goodell said in a statement the league issued Wednesday. "He will ensure that we have all the facts so that we can address this matter constructively."

"I want to thank Commissioner Goodell for moving quickly to appoint Ted Wells as special counsel on this matter," Ross wrote in a statement. "He has an impeccable reputation and we look forward to fully cooperating with the review. We take this situation seriously. As the owner, I am committed to creating a professional environment for all of the members of the Dolphins family. Once the review is completed and I have all of the facts, we will respond accordingly."

Wells is the same lawyer who handled the special investigations into the Syracuse University basketball team sexual harassment case and the NBA players union leadership dispute â?? the latter ending in a report that led to a change in the head of the union.

He "will have full authority to investigate as he deems appropriate," Goodell's statement said, adding that Wells is on the job immediately and will try to complete his work as quickly as possible, though no set timetable has been imposed.

The investigation was announced Sunday, shortly after the representatives for Dolphins tackle Jonathan Martin handed over alleged evidence of harassment by guard Richie Incognito that led to Martin's departure from the team last week.

"I am pleased to accept this appointment by Commissioner Goodell," Wells said. "My task is to assemble the facts and present my findings to the commissioner. I will do so fairly and comprehensively so that Commissioner Goodell can address this matter properly."

Incognito, 30, was suspended for conduct detrimental to the club Sunday night. Under the terms of the collective-bargaining agreement his suspension can last no longer than four weeks.

Martin, 24, remains on the Dolphins' active roster but is undergoing counseling in California, a person with knowledge of the situation told USA TODAY Sports on Monday. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because they weren't authorized to speak publicly on the matter.

Dolphins coach Joe Philbin has said he and the team weren't aware of any alleged harassment until Martin's reps provided evidence Sunday.

"Under league policy, all employees have the right to a workplace free of any form of harassment," Goodell said. "We are fully committed to an appropriate working environment for all NFL personnel."

The NFL Players Association released a statement Tuesday saying it will "insist on a fair investigation for all involved. We will continue to remain in contact with the impacted players, their representatives and player leadership."